Adamstown woman winner in state parks photography contest

Tamie Dickson's prize-winning photo of her yellow lab Bebe fetching a stick in the lake at Black Moshannon State Park, Philipsburg, Centre County.

Tamie Dickson of Adamstown, Lancaster County, recently won first place in the Dogs of the Outdoors category of the Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation's 2013 Through the Seasons Photo Contest. Dickson's award-winning entry featured her 10-year old yellow lab, Bebe, playing in the lake at Black Moshannon State Park, Philipsburg, Centre County.

This was the first time Dickson participated in the annual competition. She became a member of the foundation about a year ago and saw the contest advertised in a PPFF publication.

The PPFF, a nonprofit organization founded in 1999, supports 120 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest. With the help of volunteers, donations and other events, the foundation promotes healthier lifestyles through outdoor reaction activities as well as environmental education programs.

Other contest categories included Appreciation of Beauty, Kids in the Outdoors and Outdoor Recreation. Eligible photos needed to be taken in a Pennsylvania state park or forest. Winners were chosen by popular vote and critics' choice.

"I entered the contest because of the Dogs in the Outdoors category," Dickson said. "I have many photos of my dog at the various parks, so I thought it was a perfect opportunity."

Dickson and her husband adopted Bebe in February 2009, and since then they have enjoyed various outdoor activities with her. Dickson said she takes her on hikes almost every week, and they used to do frequent trail runs together.

"I am grateful that we have such wonderful parks here in Pennsylvania," she said. "Getting out in the fresh air helps me to decompress and stay focused on the small things in life that often get overlooked. I treasure those moments, whether it's on my own, with my dog, with my husband or an outing with family or friends."

Every time they visit a hiking spot for the first time, Dickson always is sure to bring her camera. Not only does taking photographs of Bebe allow Dickson to practice her photography skills, but it also let's her capture those special moments with her pet and create memories.

When asked what inspired this photo, Dickson said, "Since we were at the lake, I decided that I would throw sticks out in the water and try to get that 'just right shot' of her running in the water and retrieving the sticks.

"She is a good subject and cooperates well. If you look closely at the photo, I swear she is smiling."

She took close to 25 photos that day. Participants were permitted to submit up to three photos per category. Dickson chose two she felt really captured the fun Bebe was having running and jumping in the water and chasing sticks.

"Every year we are inspired by the array of talented photographers and the images they capture in our state parks and forests," said PPFF President Marci Mowery. "These images remind us to take time to be in the outdoors."

Dickson said the participating in the contest was very exciting. She was honored to have won.

"It was a good experience, and even if I hadn't won, I am glad I had a chance to participate," she said. "Also, I enjoyed seeing all of the wonderful photographs that were submitted.

As a pet owner and nature enthusiast, Dickson stressed how wonderful the state park system and forests are and encouraged others to take advantage of them.

"They are free, easily accessible and the exercise is good for you (and your dog)," she said. "And don't forget your camera. You never know what you might capture. It could be the next award-winning shot."